Islanders without a dentist could finally able to access a new mobile service from next month, in a new partnership between NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight and Dentaid.

As hundreds of Island residents find themselves without NHS access to dental care, the new mobile scheme aims to alleviate pressure on the system and increase access to care, for those who ae eligible.

Vulnerable Islanders, including families experiencing poverty and those at risk of homelessness, as well as children and new and expectant mothers, will be able to make appointments.

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Emergency appointments will also be available for eligible patients who are suffering acute pain and have no other access to dental care.

The mobile dental units will be parking outside community centres, public buildings and sports facilities across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

Onboard, there will be check-ups and oral cancer screening, oral health advice and emergency care, including extractions and fillings.

All treatment will be free.

How do I make an appointment to see a mobile dentist on the Isle of Wight?

  • The service is for Isle of Wight and Hampshire residents facing health inequalities, who have no other access to dental services
  • Appointments will be by referral, via community groups, GP practices, foodbanks, charity partners and 111
  • Alternatively, call Dentaid The Dental Charity on 023 8001 4450, to make an appointment
  • Only people who meet the eligibility criteria will be offered appointments
  • Cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening is not included
  • CLICK HERE to see if you are eligible for free dentist care

Isle of Wight County Press: Dentist Mary Green treats a patientDentist Mary Green treats a patient (Image: NHS Hants and IW/Dentaid)

CEO of Dentaid the Dental Charity, Andy Evans, said: "As a charity, we are focussed on giving the most vulnerable people in our communities the best possible chance of seeing a dentist.

"For many years we have been providing mobile dental services for people experiencing homelessness, head and neck cancer patients, looked after children and survivors of abuse.

“This pioneering partnership with NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight will enable us to significantly upscale our work."

Director of pharmacy, optometry and dentistry at NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight, Simon Cooper, said: “We are really pleased to be funding this project and partnering with Dentaid The Dental Charity.

"Since we took on the responsibility for dentistry last year, we have been looking at ways we can ensure better access to NHS dental care for everyone living in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

“By targeting dental care at those living in more deprived communities, we will reach those with the highest risk of poor dental quality. We can then focus further investment on other patients who are currently unable to access an NHS dentist."